UK. Belfast International Airport has signed a ten-year agreement with SSP Group that will see a major redevelopment of the travel hub’s food & beverage offer, forming a key element of its wider £100 million investment programme.
SSP will introduce new and refreshed F&B concepts designed to showcase Belfast and Northern Ireland’s culture, history and culinary heritage.
As reported, Belfast International Airport is undertaking a five-year transformation plan with recent improvements including an upgraded security hall and the next phase focused on enhancing commercial and dining spaces. As part of this development, SSP will expand its current footprint at the airport to nine units, enhancing the choice for both airside and landside travellers.
SSP’s offer will blend family-friendly dining options featuring local dishes and supplies, alongside global grab & go chains. These include Soul + Grain from SSP’s own-brand line-up, alongside Starbucks and Burger King, catering to a range of tastes and dwell times.
A number of existing units are due to be upgraded. Popular airport bar The Lagan will receive an expanded seating area and refreshed design while retaining its familiar atmosphere, while SSP will also introduce a new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.
“We have worked with Belfast International Airport for over two decades, so we’re excited to be growing our footprint together once again at such a pivotal moment in the airport’s history,” said SSP UK & Ireland CEO Kari Daniels. “The changes we’re making as part of its redevelopment will showcase the best Northern Ireland has to offer for those living in and visiting the city.
“Providing choice is one of our core goals to ensure that we meet the needs of every passenger. We look forward to bringing a few of our most popular own-brand concepts to the airport for the first time alongside a fresh look for some enduring favourites.”
Belfast International Airport said the enhanced F&B programme will play a central role in the redevelopment, which aims to transform the terminal into “a modern, passenger-friendly hub of dining options”.
Belfast International Airport Chief Executive Dan Owens added, “Northern Ireland is famous the world over for its hospitality and fantastic produce and we want to reflect that in the airport through this next phase of investment.
“We are committed to ensuring that every passenger has a memorable experience when travelling and an elevated food & beverage offering is central to that.” 
